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Apple trees and other crops and ornamentals rely on bees and other insects for pollination; honeybees are also prized for the honey they produce. Where pests are threatening apple tree health, vigor, fruit yield and quality, chemical treatment may be warranted. Observing certain practices when spraying apples and other fruit trees, timing the spraying and using only non-persistent pesticides will help to preserve the bee population while also addressing pests on the apple tree.

1

Mow down any flowering weeds near the apple trees prior to spraying the apple trees, so that honeybees will not visit weed flowers nearby that received spray drift.

2

Spray the apple tree for pests only when the apple tree and other flowering plants that the honeybees frequent are not blooming.

3

Time the pesticide application for late afternoon or evening when bees are not actively foraging, unusually low overnight temperatures are not forecast, there is little or no wind and when no dew is forecast for the night following application.

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4

Apply pesticide sprays carefully and according to manufacturer recommendations, using the lowest effective rate. Whenever possible, choose materials that are relatively nonhazardous to bees.

Things Needed

Lawn mower or weed trimmer, if needed

Tips

If you know anyone who is keeping bees near where you are spraying apple trees, communicate your spray schedule with them so they can contain or move their hives, if needed.